Immunisation

Immunisation is the process of developing protection against an infectious disease, usually through vaccination. Vaccination is the act of receiving a vaccine; immunisation describes the immune protection that follows. Protection can vary by vaccine, person and time, and some schedules require several doses or later boosters.

Why are several appointments sometimes needed?

A course may use multiple doses to develop or maintain protection. Timing depends on the vaccine and the person's age and circumstances. An incomplete or uncertain history should be reviewed rather than guessed from memory.

Bring available vaccination records, including overseas records, to an appropriate clinician. They can assess whether a catch-up plan is needed. Do not assume that repeating everything or starting every course again is the correct response to a missing document.

For the Australian guidance behind this explanation, see Healthdirect Australia: Immunisation or vaccination - what's the difference?.

Does immunisation prevent every infection?

No vaccine provides an absolute guarantee for every person. Recommendations weigh expected benefits, risks and the pattern of disease. Some people need different timing or additional considerations because of pregnancy, immune conditions, age or planned travel.

Tell the vaccinating provider about prior serious reactions, relevant health conditions and current treatment. Ask what common after-effects to expect and which symptoms need urgent advice. A temporary minor symptom after vaccination and a severe allergic reaction require different responses.

How do I know what is due?

Use the current Australian schedule and an individual review of your records. Funded eligibility and clinical recommendation are related but not identical; a recommended vaccine may not always be free for every person. Check costs and provider arrangements before a planned appointment.

Doccio's online doctor service may support a discussion, but vaccination itself needs an appropriate in-person provider. This glossary does not claim Doccio administers vaccines. Ask for a clear plan covering what is due, where it will be given and how the record will be updated.

Where to go next

Read online doctor consultations to understand the relevant service. A doctor decides whether a consultation, examination, referral or another pathway is appropriate for your situation.